Good Neighbour Energy Fund Launches Today

More Nova Scotians will be eligible for emergency home heating funding this winter through an enhanced Good Neighbour Energy Fund program launched today, Jan. 15.

This year income thresholds have increased from $16,000 to $21,000 for a single income and from $24,000 to $39,000 for a family of four people.

“Winter can be a difficult time of year for many, and we want to help,” said Halifax Atlantic MLA Brendan Maguire, on behalf of Service Nova Scotia Minister Geoff MacLellan. “Making this program more accessible means more people can stay warm if they are in an emergency situation.”

Through this program government, Nova Scotia Power and The Salvation Army partner to provide financial assistance to low income Nova Scotians who are in emergency need of home heating assistance.

“The Good Neighbour Energy Fund allows The Salvation Army to continue its work of providing basic needs to struggling individuals and families across Nova Scotia,” said Major Wade Budgell, divisional commander of The Salvation Army Maritime Division. “This program offers a sense of hope and dignity in a time of crisis. We are grateful for the generous support of our partners who allow us to continue to serve those most in need in our communities.”

Last year, the program helped 1,877 citizens and families heat their homes. This year, government is contributing up to $800,000 to the fund. Nova Scotia Power is providing $150,000.

“We strongly believe in our shared responsibility to help those in our communities who are struggling to afford basic needs, such as heat,” said Karen Hutt, president and CEO, Nova Scotia Power. “For more than 20 years this program has provided a helping hand to those who need it most, and we’re pleased to continue to be a part of it.”

Nova Scotians may also be eligible for the Heating Assistance Rebate Program to help with up to $200 toward home heating costs. The program’s income thresholds have also increased this year, allowing more people to access heating help. Applying online is the easiest and fastest way to receive the rebate. To learn more and to apply online, visit www.novascotia.ca/heatinghelp .